Consider the following statements: Statement-I: India, despite having uranium deposits, depends on coal for most of its electricity production. Statement-II: Uranium, enriched to the extent of at least 60% is required for the production of electricity. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Explanation
The Assertion is Correct: India possesses domestic uranium deposits in regions such as the Singhbhum Shear Zone (Jharkhand) and the Cuddapah Basin (Andhra Pradesh). Despite these reserves, coal remains the primary source of electricity in India, accounting for over 70% of the total power generation.
The Reason is Incorrect: Commercial electricity production does not require 60% enrichment. India's Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) use natural uranium (0.7% U-235) as fuel, while Light Water Reactors (LWRs) typically use Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) enriched to 3-5%. Uranium enriched to 60% or more is classified as Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU), which is used for research reactors or naval propulsion, not standard power plants.
The Reason is factually incorrect and does not explain the Assertion.